Team US already suffered two massive blows when Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula were absent from the final team of the Billie Jean King Cup. However, their losses will only expand after their BJK Cup stint is over. Their captain, Kathy Rinaldi, will be stepping down from the team after their 2023 stint. Danielle Collins, a member of the team, got emotional as she talked about Rinaldi’s exit.

A captain in the BJK Cup is the one who organizes everything. They devise the strategies and guide the players toward victory. However, Kathy Rinaldi was more than just a guide for Collins. The 29-year-old American has developed a deep bond with the captain of the team.

Danielle Collins shares outlook on Kathy Rinaldi  

Rinaldi will be stepping down as her role from coach of the US BJK Cup captain after leading them for six years straight. It was a blow to all members of the team. Danielle Collins recently opened up to tell us about her experience with the coach. She said that Rinaldi’s care for the players is what separates her from other great coaches. Her coaching record speaks for itself, and she has experienced tremendous amounts of success as a player.

But Collins loves her for another reason, “What really stands out to me the most, honestly, is the way she treats all of us and how she’s been true friends to all of us. Whether it’s been through big wins, really tough losses, or personal challenges, she has been there for all of us. I could go into so many different stories of how she’s always been the first person to pick up the phone if you’re ever in a pinch or need something or just need someone to talk to.”

The decision for her to step down devastated Collins, as Rinaldi had become one of her role models. “I was really devastated when, obviously, the decision was made to step down because I have had so much fun with her over the years. She’s one of my biggest role models, to be honest, on and off the court. Kathy is just an amazing, amazing person.”

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Rinaldi’s retirement news comes as a surprise to many. However, she has decided to step down and let another American legend take the reigns for the US team.

US BJK Cup legend to take the reigns on the team

Kathy Rinaldi’s absence will be sorely missed by the players, undoubtedly. However, another American legend is stepping up for the team. Lindsay Davenport, the six-time grand slam champion, will now be the captain of the US team for the BJK Cup. She is a great choice for the team, as she has the most experience with the BJK Cup. She has played the tournament 11 times and won it once in 2000.

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She also has an impressive personal and coaching record, which makes her an easy choice as the successor to Rinaldi. When the news was announced, Chris Evert was elated and congratulated her on the announcement post. Now, Kathy Rinaldi, who is a beloved coach, will slowly step away. The change will be tricky at first, but we will see its effects in the 2024 BJK Cup.